Teacher Guide

Allen Ginsberg's Poetry Lesson Plan

Bringing in Technology

Because recordings of Allen Ginsberg reading and discussing "Howl" are available online, the technological advantages to teaching his poetry are rich and convenient. These lessons incorporate audio recordings and interviews that add an aspect of performance to the lesson. Hearing the poet read could also ease tensions of reading the controversial poetry out loud in class.

Day four of the lesson incorporates the suggestion of reviewing a contemporary review of "Howl" upon the 50th anniversary of its publication, allowing for a discussion of cultural relevance and universal meaning of the poem.

The unit has several instances where technology can provide helpful background information:...

Allen Ginsberg’s Poetry Questions and Answers

Michael Drayton's sonnet "Love's Farewell," deals with the theme of reconcilement between two lovers who are at the brink of breaking up and parting forever, but at the last moment they decide to make up and continue as lovers.